Radio broadcasting

UK radio stations must obtain a PPL licence to play recorded music in their broadcasts.

PPL licenses radio stations in the UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands to play recorded music, on a variety of different platforms including AM/FM, DAB, satellite and online.

Licensed radio services include BBC and commercial radio stations such as Capital, Smooth FM and Absolute Radio, through to community, student, hospital and prison stations. PPL also license online radio services streaming in the UK.

Why do I need a radio broadcasting licence?

In order to play recorded music in radio broadcasts, legal permission is needed from the copyright holders. A PPL licence gives you this permission.

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What's the difference between PPL and PRS for Music?

PPL collects royalties on behalf of performers and record companies, while PRS for Music collects royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers and publishers. When a radio station includes recorded music in its over-the-air or online broadcast, in most instances a licence from both organisations is legally required.